Bokeo dig unearths largest Buddha statue to date

A statue of Buddha at least two metres tall was excavated from a sandy area near the Mekong River on Thursday, making it the largest statue to be unearthed during the ongoing search for ancient artefacts in Tonpheung district, Bokeo district, which began in March.

The largest Buddha statue to be found in Tonpheung district was unearthed during excavations on Thursday.                            --Photo Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone

Nine other Buddha images were dug up on Wednesday. One was 30 centimetres tall and 25 centimetres wide, another was 27 centimetres tall and 18 centimetres wide, and a third measured 36x30 centimetres.
The rest were measured at 15x10cm, 36x24cm, 15x17cm, 28x11cm, 23x15cm, and 30x22cm.
No precise facts about the age and origin of the images are known, but it is believed they are remnants of temples and stupas that were part of the town of Souvanna Khomkham which occupied the site several hundred years ago.
The excavation has been upgraded to a national level, although locally sourced equipment and Lao officials continue to be involved in the excavation process as there is no need for more qualified experts.
The government has appointed a national-level committee consisting of senior officials to ensure that future excavations are carried out professionally and that records detailing all of the artefacts are systematic and accurate.
Most of the images found to date are made of bronze and all have been placed in Thongthip Phatthanaram temple in Yaitonpheung village, Tonpheung district, for safekeeping, where they are being closely guarded.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update May 17, 2024)